Medical Assistant Technical Standards

It is your responsibility to understand the duties, responsibilities, skills and abilities required of your chosen program/profession. In addition to the technical standards as described above, please review the information regarding Medical Assisting at the O*NET website.

Motor

Apply general care & emergency treatment to patients

Help lift patients who may be unable to move themselves to and from the examination table.

Lift and move objects routinely (50 pounds or more )

Manipulate mechanical and patient care equipment.

Distinguish audible sounds

Work standing on his/her feet 80% of the time.

Have full use of hands, wrists and shoulders involving the coordination of muscular movements, equilibrium, and sensation.

Cognitive Domain

Read and comprehend written instructions, patients’ charts, and other written material.

Perform basic arithmetic calculations

Demonstrate sufficient analytical and critical thinking skills to provide quality patient care in keeping with professional standards of the MA profession.

Be able to hear and observe clinical staff and patients in order to accurately assess vital signs, elicit information, perceive nonverbal communications, describe changes in mood, activity and posture, and recognize and respond to an emergency situation.

Demonstrate professional attributes including accepting responsibility and accountability for actions in the medical office setting, a positive work ethic that includes showing up to class and clinic on-time and being emotionally and academically prepared to carry out the days assignments in a professional manner.

A student must possess qualities of adaptability, flexibility, and be able to function as a team member in the delivery of patient care. He/she must have a high level of compassion for others, motivation to serve, integrity, and a consciousness of social values.